10 Wonderful Benefits of Blue Vervain

The most important health benefits of blue vervain include its ability to stimulate the liver, soothe the nervous system, detoxify the body, reduce depression and stress, eliminate pain, lower inflammation, protect the immune system, and alleviate chest congestion.

What is Blue Vervain?

Throughout North America, you can find small patches of purple flowering plants commonly known as blue vervain. However, the scientific name of this well-known herb is Verbena hastata and is also known by the name swamp verbena. These plants are quite robust and are able to resist drought, making them very reliable sources of this powerful herb.

The organic constituents in the leaves, roots, and flowers possess certain qualities that are beneficial for human health. Blue vervain has been used for thousands of years and is not limited to North America. Even the Romans used verbena (another common name) to treat a variety of medical conditions, and the flowering herb was also a popular remedy among the Native Americans. The herb is primarily used now by herbalists and traditional medicine practitioners.

It can be consumed in the form of a warm infusion of leaves, roots or flowers, most easily accomplished as a tea. The unique composition of the acids and phytochemicals in blue vervain is responsible for the surprisingly potent and fast-acting effects of this herb and is the reason for its popularity to this day.

Health Benefits of Blue Vervain

Let’s take a closer look at the numerous health benefits of blue vervain.

Detoxifies the Body

One of the oldest and most reliable uses of blue vervain is as a diuretic, as it stimulates the release of urine from the body. It can help eliminate toxins from the system, as well as excess water, salts, and fat. It also helps protect the kidneys and the liver by reducing the presence of dangerous substances and toxins that accumulate there. If you have a bladder infection, blue vervain can be a highly effective remedy.

Treats Respiratory Disorders

If you regularly suffer from chest congestion, colds, chronic bronchitis, sore throats or respiratory inflammation, blue vervain tea can be a simple and pleasant means of clearing up your tracts and eliminating irritation. Coughs and colds from Rome to California have been cured with blue vervain, as it also acts as an expectorant, helping to expel mucus and phlegm that have accumulated in the respiratory tracts.

Keeps Nervous System Healthy

The soothing properties of blue vervain can effectively treat a number of ailments, including nervous disorders, chronic anxiety, stress, and sleeplessness. Sometimes, our body’s release and management of hormones are less than optimal, and over time, this can cause significant health problems. A cup of blue vervain tea can calm our nerves and re-balance hormone levels, ensuring that our body can rest.

Relieves Depression

Blue vervain has commonly been turned to in the past for people suffering from depression and unpredictable moods. This relaxing and uplifting herb can promote positive thinking, stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, and improve your mood by clearing your mind of worry.

Anti-parasitic Activity

Although intestinal worms and parasites aren’t as common as they used to be before proper food preparation guidelines and health advanced, the anti-parasitic nature of blue vervain is still relied on in some cultures and situations. The natural anti-parasitic nature of the herb means that you can eliminate or prevent the growth and development of any worms or parasites in your intestines, thereby protecting your digestive health.

Eases Menstruation

For women who suffer from severe periods, blue vervain can be a blessing. It has been known to reduce cramps and general discomfort, primarily for women who are bloated and cramping. Its effects on mood and depression can also soften the symptoms of menstruation, while its help in regulation of hormones will keep you balanced and functional.

Oral Health

The tannins present in blue vervain make it a very effective way to protect your overall oral health. Whether you have bleeding gums, mouth ulcers, bacterial infections, or any other unhealthy aspect of your oral health, blue vervain tea can quickly clear it up. Tannins function as antioxidants to promote healing and prevent further degradation to the tissue.

Breastfeeding Mothers

Some women struggle to produce enough milk for their baby, and this is completely natural in many cases. However, blue vervain can help stimulate the production of milk in the breast, ensuring that your baby has all of the nutrients it needs in that crucial period of growth.

Relieves Pain

Blue vervain can act as a powerful analgesic. It seems to be particularly effective on arthritic pain and the pain from kidney stones. The organic compounds present in blue vervain can numb certain areas and stop the pain from registering in those nerves, thereby giving you some relief. The anti-inflammatory properties of the herb are the perfect complement to this pain relief, as it will also reduce swelling and inflammation, such as in cases of gout, arthritis, or inflammation in the gastrointestinal system.

Word of Caution: There are not many reports of side effects from blue vervain or verbena supplements, but upset stomachs occasionally occur. Also, when used in larger concentrations, such as in medicinal supplements, mild skin rashes may also appear. As with any herbal remedy, it can interact with certain medications and other treatments, so it is always wise to speak with a doctor before adding it to your regimen.

John Staughton is a traveling writer, editor, and publisher who earned his English and Integrative Biology degrees from the University of Illinois in Champaign, Urbana (USA). He is the co-founder of a literary journal, Sheriff Nottingham, and calls the most beautiful places in the world his office. On a perpetual journey towards the idea of home, he uses words to educate, inspire, uplift and evolve.

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